India has announced the return of wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant to the Test squad for the first match of the two-game home series against Bangladesh, set to commence on September 19 in Chennai. This selection marks Pant’s reintroduction to the red-ball cricket scene after he endured a severe car accident in December 2022, which sidelined him from the game for a substantial period.
Pant’s comeback has been eagerly anticipated by fans and the cricket community alike, especially after the grueling rehabilitation process he underwent. Demonstrating resilience, Pant made a significant impact in the Indian Premier League (IPL), amassing 446 runs across 13 matches. His performance during the IPL was a harbinger of his fitness and readiness for international contests, which eventually led to his selection for India’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign. His involvement didn’t stop there; he also played a One Day International in Sri Lanka and participated in the inaugural match of the recently concluded Duleep Trophy, impressing with his skill and form.
His last appearance in a Test match dates back to just before his accident, making his return a full-circle moment as he debuts in the Test series that kickstarts India’s domestic cricket season. Alongside Rishabh Pant, the lineup includes Dhruv Jurel as the other wicketkeeper, highlighting the selectors’ faith in a balance of experience and fresh talent.
The complete squad for the first Test encompasses a mix of seasoned players and promising newcomers: Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Dhruv Jurel (wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, and Yash Dayal.
Bagging a spot in the Indian squad, Bengal pacer Akash Deep has been chosen as the third seamer, pairing up with renowned bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Akash’s performance this year has turned heads; making his Test debut against England in Ranchi, he impressed further by capturing nine wickets, including a five-wicket haul, for India A in the Duleep Trophy match. Despite his efforts, Mukesh Kumar, who possesses three Test caps, did not make the cut.
. Additionally, the selectors opted to include the uncapped left-arm fast bowler Yash Dayal in the 16-member squad.
Other notable exclusions from the squad include Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, and KS Bharat, all of whom were part of the series against England but failed to retain their spots. In a strategic move, India’s middle-order now sees the return of KL Rahul, who has been absent due to a quadriceps injury that caused him to miss four of the five-Test series against England. Rahul’s return aims to bolster the batting order, complemented by the presence of Sarfaraz Khan. Sarfaraz had an impressive debut series against England, recording three half-centuries in six innings, a performance that has rightfully earned him another call-up.
In line with expectations, India’s spin attack will be formidable, featuring the established quartet of R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav. This blend of experienced and youthful players paints a picture of a squad eager to assert dominance on home turf.
Following the initial Test in Chennai, the action moves to Kanpur for the second match, scheduled from September 27. As the Test series concludes, focus will shift to the shortest format of the game, with India and Bangladesh squaring off in three T20 International matches between October 6 and 12.
The inclusion of Rishabh Pant, alongside a balanced mix of veterans and rising stars, underscores India’s intention to field a competitive and dynamic squad. With the first Test just around the corner, the excitement and anticipation among cricket enthusiasts are palpable, as all eyes will be on Pant and his much-awaited return to the Test arena.